The most pressing topic was the amendment to the city’s code of ordinances to allow for recreational vehicle parks in a planned unit development (PUD) zoning district. The City Manager presented a PowerPoint presentation, explaining the need for detailed master planning and unified control over land designated for such parks. The City Attorney and City Manager outlined a process that would include two public hearings. The importance of public input and the council’s final approval authority were stressed throughout the discussion.

Deliberations included the specifics of RV park regulations, such as the minimum lot requirements, the necessity of dedicating 20% of total site area to common open spaces, and the effort to streamline the process while maintaining clear and precise language in the code. The council discussed the potential for annexing existing properties with RV parks into the district and the importance of adhering to the tree protection and restoration code, which currently mandates a 4-inch diameter for tree preservation, with a suggested increase to 5 inches.

A key issue of contention was the appropriate density of residential units per acre within RV parks. The council weighed the current standard of eight units per acre against the potential to increase this number. They considered various factors such as setbacks, green space, and non-buildable land, which could influence the effective density.

Setbacks for RVs from the internal roadway line were also a focal point, with members debating between a 5-foot and a 10-foot requirement. A representative from the fire department argued for sufficient space to accommodate emergency vehicles. After thorough discussion, a compromise was reached, setting the setback at 7 feet.

The maintenance and surfacing of roadways within RV parks were deliberated, with a focus on ensuring durability and safety for large vehicles. The council discussed the options of concrete, asphalt, and crushed limestone for the interior roads of RV parks. The conversation extended to proper road maintenance for emergency access, especially in flood-prone areas, and ultimately, the council aimed to establish regulations that would address these concerns while respecting the natural campground aesthetic.

Further, the council tackled the topic of buffering requirements for RV parks. The debate centered on the maintenance and protection of existing trees, with technical details such as tree protection zones and the measurement of trees using diameter at breast height (dbh) being discussed. The need to clarify these terms in the regulations was acknowledged.

The council also considered the placement of RV parks, requiring entrance from a collector arterial classified roadway to avoid residential areas. They discussed the necessity for parking requirements for ancillary uses within the park, as well as the importance of complying with fire safety rules, having conspicuously posted fire safety rules, and adhering to the Department of Health guidelines for bathroom facilities.

Lastly, the council received positive feedback from a member of the public regarding the meeting’s format and the depth of discussion on topics. The meeting concluded with a motion and a second, and the council moved to adjourn.